Saanich Peninsula Hospital receives $500,000 donation

A $500,000 donation has been made to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital and Healthcare Foundation (SPHHF) in memory of Florence Yong, a long time day patient. The generous gift will be used to create an endowment fund, with a scholarship program to financially assist hospital personnel undertaking professional development courses.

The hospital said there will be a long-term benefit to its operation including advanced techniques in surgical nursing, imaging and laboratory technology, respiratory technology, orthopaedics technology and rehabilitation assistance.

Paul Hames, president of SPHHF explained the importance of the gift. “The Saanich Peninsula is a small hospital, employing a rural medical model. Because of its size, staff recruitment and retention can be difficult. We know that programmes like this, which will support important projects and assist staff in pursuit of their professional goals, will keep it modern and vibrant.”

Yong got to know many of the nurses and other staff members during her hospital visits. She became aware of the need for professional development to help the staff, as well as increasing the efficacy of the hospital. Yong was described by a friend as being, “devoted to her family and friends, always giving of herself.”

Yong’s family believes the generous gift, which will enable others to realize their professional dreams, is a fitting tribute to her memory.